Ballpark Renovations Nearing Completion

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It's been roughly four months now since Tony LaRussa's relief snafu in Game 5 of the World Series at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington.

In that game, LaRussa had a mix-up in his bullpen when the crowd was so loud, he and the bullpen coach couldn't get on the same page over the phone. And the way the visiting bullpen was configured, it was impossible to see who was warming from the visiting dugout, and pretty much everywhere else in the stadium.

Now, that's changing, as the visiting bullpen will be configured so the pitchers are throwing toward Greene's Hill, just like the Rangers relievers. That's just one of many renovations that are now expected to be completed by the time the Rangers open up the 2012 season when they host the Chicago White Sox.

There will also be some fun for the family added to the center-field plaza, namely the Batter’s Eye Dining Club, with concession stands and video boards, an indoor Kid Zone and a restaurant and sports bar.

So while Tony LaRussa, who's now retired, will never enjoy the new configuration, other opposing managers are probably grateful LaRussa was the goat that night. They, along with Rangers fans, will be treated to lots of new treats come Opening Day.